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to argue or fight until a disagreement is resolved
![to [duke] it out definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44630/original/?type=jpeg "to [duke] it out definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "duke it out" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "duke it out" is believed to be associated with the word "duke" being used as a slang term for a fist. This suggests that the phrase originally referred to two individuals settling a dispute or engaging in a physical fight using their fists, hence "duking it out." While the precise historical origins of this expression may be somewhat unclear, it is commonly used in English to describe a situation in which two parties engage in a vigorous or intense conflict or competition to resolve a dispute or determine superiority. It signifies a heated and determined effort to resolve a conflict or determine a winner, and it can be applied to a variety of contexts, from sports competitions and business negotiations to personal disagreements or political debates.
to engage in a physical fight, typically using one's fists
What is the origin of the idiom "duke it out" and when to use it?
The idiom "duke it out" originates from the concept of bare-knuckle boxing in the 19th century. The term "duke" is thought to be a reference to the Duke of Cumberland, a famous fighter in that era. Over time, this phrase has evolved into a more general expression for any heated or intense confrontation that leads to a physical fight.
